Yesterday the Association “Cooperation Network of the Historic Pilgrimage Ways to Guadalupe” held both its Ordinary and Extraordinary General Assemblies in Bohonal de Ibor, in the province of Cáceres. During the sessions, the representatives of the member organisations adopted strategic decisions that mark a very positive turning point for the network, notably an unprecedented financial recovery, its integration into major national networks and the approval of the action plan for the coming months.
On the financial side, the Ordinary Assembly approved the Financial Report for 2025, which confirms the healthy state of the organisation’s accounts.
As the central item of the extraordinary meeting, the Assembly unanimously approved the Network’s membership of the Association of Cultural Routes of Spain. This strategic step, which involves an annual contribution of 4,000 euros, will allow the Ways to Guadalupe to be promoted jointly under the umbrella of this national Product Club, joining a permanent forum for sharing experience in cultural tourism.
At the same time, the Network continues to consolidate its territorial growth with the ratification of new members. From today, the Local Action Group ADC Tierras de Talavera, the town councils of Malagón and Manchita, and the Camino Estados del Duque pilgrims’ association join as full members. The business community has also reaffirmed its support with six new partner businesses, including accommodation and restaurants in several nearby municipalities. In addition, the withdrawal request from the Town Council of Villar del Pedroso was processed.
The Assembly gave the green light to the programme of activities for the second half of 2026, whose main event will be the Grand Pilgrimage in September. This major gathering will bring together the pilgrim groups from the 16 routes for a triumphant entrance up the steps of the Atrium of Guadalupe, culminating in a Grand Pilgrims’ Mass and an Institutional Event in the Plaza de Santa María. All of this will take place on 19 September, in the middle of the Guadalupe Holy Year.
The training and institutional calendar will be completed in October with a study trip to Caravaca de la Cruz (Murcia) to learn first-hand about its successful model of governance, hostel management and pilgrim hospitality.
Finally, on 23 and 24 November the 2nd Technical Conference will be held, with papers, round tables and talks on waymarking, economic impact and tourism product clubs, as well as the presentation of new routes joining the network.
To support all this activity administratively, the collaboration agreement with APRODERVI was ratified. Under this agreement, the Network will contribute 9,000 euros in 2026, earmarked exclusively to cover the staff and running costs of the Technical Office entrusted to this organisation.
Lastly, those present approved the amendment of Articles 11, 17 and 24 of the Statutes. These changes aim to streamline the running of the association by reducing the waiting time before the second call of an assembly to half an hour and by delegating to the Board the power to approve the admission of new members.
The meeting in Bohonal de Ibor closed on a festive note with the traditional presentation of plaques to the partner businesses and seals to the new members, showing the region’s growing commitment to promoting the Ways to Guadalupe.
